Project Glass: the augmented reality glasses from Google

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For quite awhile now, rumors of the “Google Glasses” have been floating around the internet. Leaks and guesses led to some interesting concepts about what the technology might look like, and how it might work. News of these glasses fell off the radar for a little bit, until Google unveiled their Google+ page for what they are calling Project Glass, with a video to accompany it. Project Glass is the name Google is currently using for their wearable computer technology that they plan to start testing in public starting today.

At first glance, the Project Glass headset gives me a flashback to Jeri Ryan as Seven of Nine from Star Trek: Voyager. Despite early reports that these glasses would be bulky shades, like the Oakley Thumps, the glasses appear to be a thin visor like band that you would wear like glasses. The computer and the lens appear to barely take over the one eye. As is typical with a Google unveiling, the video leaves you with more questions then answers.

Taking a look at the video below, it seems like the device is constantly connected to the web, which is not surprising coming from Google. The headset appeared to be streaming music and then switched quickly to a video call. The glasses seem to have GPS as well, as demonstrated when the device checked in and used Google Maps walking directions. A picture is almost instantly uploaded and posted to Google+. Project Glass appears to be a great wrapper for all of Google’s services that exist now, and some that are on the way.

Navigating the UI appeared to be a combination of gestures and voice commands. Accessing the menu happened when the user tilted their head up slightly, or you could give a voice command for a specific functions. The commands that are given are fairly specific, possibly hinting at the integration of Project Majel, Google’s upcoming voice-based assistant and possible Siri competitor.

There’s no real information available, outside of the video and “sources close to the matter”. Our own source originally suggested that Google I/O attendees would be able to play with the Google Glasses, and given that the device is being tested out in the public eye now, that seems even more likely.